Why is My Dishwasher Not Drying?

If your dishwasher is not drying dishes properly, there are several easy steps you can take to resolve the issue. However, sometimes a bigger issue is at play and a replacement part is required. Here’s what you can do to pinpoint the problem and minimize the occurrence of excess water after a cycle.

IF YOUR DISHWASHER ISN’T DRYING PROPERLY, CHECK THE FOLLOWING:

1. RINSE AID DISPENSER

Rinse aid is just as important as detergent because it helps your dishes shed water and therefore dry quicker. Make sure your rinse aid dispenser is full and the cap is fitted and functioning properly.

2. HEATING ELEMENT

Most dishwashers use hot water to kill bacteria and properly sanitize your dishes. Since the water going into the appliance isn't hot enough, the heating element (a thin, circular tube at the bottom of the tub) will heat up the water so it reaches the optimal temperature for killing germs. The heating element is also integral to faster drying time because heat encourages moisture to evaporate.

If the element isn't working properly, not only will your dishes not come out as clean as they could, they'll also come out wet. If you suspect the heating element is faulty, consider having it inspected by a trained professional.

3. VENT

Your dishwasher’s vent releases hot air during the drying cycle. If the vent isn’t opening properly, steam can’t escape and your dishes will still be wet. Inspect the vent and clean off any debris that may be restricting airflow. If the vent isn’t opening at all, it will need to be repaired or replaced.

4. HIGH LIMIT THERMOSAT

The high limit thermostat functions as a safety device that prevents the dishwasher from getting too hot. If it is malfunctioning, it might be shutting off the heat before your dishes are finished drying. Keeping the thermostat in working order is important, not only for appliance efficiency, but also safety reasons.

BEST PRACTICES FOR DRY DISHES

Choosing a cycle:

Improve drying performance by selecting the “Heated Dry” feature on your dishwasher. Depending on the model of your appliance, you may have other high-heat options available, such as “Added Heat”, “Wash Heat Boost”, or “High Temperature Rinse”.
Selecting a “Heavy” cycle will add more heat than a “Normal” cycle, which may also improve drying performance.

Loading:

Don’t overpack your dishwasher. Crowded or tightly stacked dishes can prevent them from drying properly. Make sure there is enough space between your dishes to allow air to circulate during the drying cycle.

Unloading:

Once the dishwasher cycle is complete, open the door several inches and give excess steam a few minutes to escape before unloading.
Unload the bottom rack first. Water from the top rack can splash onto the dishes below, making them wet.

NEED MORE HELP?

If your dishwasher problems are persisting, it may be time to enlist a technician. Schedule service online now and one of our GE Appliances experts will quickly pinpoint, diagnose, and resolve the issue—often in a single visit.*

*GE Appliances technicians carry an extensive parts inventory on their service trucks. In the event a part is not available on the service truck, a follow-up service call may be required.